Reference Letters
Dr. Frank Cox's Reference Letter:
"Darrell Ritchie has been a member of North Metro for (19) years. I have watched with great interest as he felt the call to concert ministry in churches. As most of us who have ministered know, God usually uses the ones most whom He breaks most. I can promise you that Darrell has been through a time of pruning and reshaping by our Heavenly Father.
I believe Darrell is more prepared to minister today than at any other time in his life. I hope you will pray concerning allowing him to minister to your church.he will be a blessing to you as he shares form his heart the work of God in recent days."
Dr. Frank Cox, Senior Pastor
North Metro First Baptist Church
Lawrenceville, GA
Dr. Ike Reighard's Reference Letter:
"It is my pleasure to recommend the ministry of Darrell Ritchie. Darrell has been gifted with a wonderful voice and an even greater ministry. Darrell faced a time of great adversity when he lost the ability to do that which he loves the most.singing for the Lord. His story, interwoven with his gift, will bless you and your congregation
I have found him to be a man of integrity and principle and very committed to his home church at North Metro. Should you have the opportunity, I believe Darrell would be a blessing to your people."
Dr. Dwight "Ike" Reighard, Former Pastor
NorthStar Church
Kennesaw, GA
Rev. Keith McBroom's Reference Letter:
"It is an honor to recommend to you the worship ministry of Darrell Ritchie. Darrell has been an active member of our church for several years. He also sings in our Celebration Choir when he is not sharing at another church.
Darrell's gifts in music are obvious. His love for the Lord and desire to serve will challenge your people to do the same."
Rev. Keith McBroom, Minister of Music
North Metro First Baptist Church
Lawrenceville, GA
Additional References
"I have known Darrell Ritchie for over 15 years
and have enjoyed his ministry and friendship. I have had him in both churches
which I have served, and he has ministered in a unique manner. His focus
is on worship; not putting on a show. He uses a variety of musical styles
and gets the whole congregation involved. Darrell has also been a great
encouragement to me personally through the years. He has ministered to me
when I was going through some difficult days in ministry. It is my pleasure
to recommend Darrell Ritchie to you."
- Rickey Taylor, Minister of Music & Education, First Baptist
Church, Bushnell, FL
"Darrell came and led us in worship. It was simply and wonderfully that--worship.
He shared both song and story with an authenticity and transparency that made him seem like family right away. His heart for glorifying our Lord could be clearly seen and transformed a concert into a worshipful encounter with Almighty God. Thanks Darrell!"
- - Ray Westveer,Minister Of Music, First Baptist Church, Portland, TN
"I highly recommend inviting Darrell Ritchie to
minister through song in your church. I have enjoyed his talents in three
different churches during my ministry. More importantly, he and I have enjoyed
a friendship in the Lord which endures to this day. Darrell is not a singer
with an ego, rather he's a singer with a testimony that will be a blessing
to your congregation. Darrell is able to share in a variety of musical styles,
some of which will speak to any person of any age that attends the worship
event. In other words, there's something for everyone!"
- Mitch Duncan, Pastor of Worship Ministries, Mt. Harmony
Baptist Church, Matthews, NC
"The church family of First Baptist Church, Tarboro, NC were privileged to have Darrell Ritchie in concert. Darell's music was right on target for our church. He presented a good balance of Praise & Worship and beautiful hymn arrangements which our eleven o'clock worshipers really loved. His testimony in both word and song touched our people. We like Darrell! You will too!"
- Robert Sparks, Minister of Music, First Baptist Church, Tarboro, NC
"I would like to take this opportunity to highly
recommend to you my good friend Darrell Ritchie. We recently had Darrell
come to our church for a Sunday morning concert and what a blessing he was
to our entire church family. One of the things I really appreciate about
Darrell and the ministry God has given him is that when he comes, he does
not come to perform. He comes to lift up Jesus and lead people to worship
Him? The other thing I love about Darrell is that he is real. He doesn’t
try to put on a show or impress people. He is a down to earth man, committed
to serving God by serving others through the gift God has given him. I highly
encourage you to have him at your church. You, along with your people, will
be greatly blessed by this anointed man of God! "
-John Whaley, Pastor First Baptist Church, Double Springs, AL
"I've known Darrell for several years. On his first
concert (here) at First Baptist, Darrell presented the gospel with great
compassion, but his voice was giving him much difficulty. He and I discussed
this afterwards. I hate to say, but it was difficult to have him back for
several years. At a point recently, I felt the Lord leading and our church
extended the call for another concert after he got back on the road. The
Lord blessed greatly. I thank God for Darrell's sweet and humble spirit.
The Lord is using him mightily now. "Darrell, thanks for a great worship
experience."
Dan Colletti , Minister of Music First Baptist Church, Chipley,
FL
" “I have known Darrell Ritchie since 1987 and have found him to be a genuine man of God. His music ministry is born out of a heart of love for the Lord and a desire to see men, women, boys, and girls come to faith in Christ. I whole-heartedly recommend him to your church or your ministry. He will bless your hearts and God will use him mightily."
Paul Crews , Pastor, Highland Baptist Church, New London, NC
"It is my privilege to recommend to you Mr. Darrell
Ritchie. He and I spoke on the phone for the first time about two years
ago. I learned more of his music ministry through his email newsletters,
and spoke with him at length before inviting him to lead in worship at our
church on July 31, 2005. Prior to his concert at our church, Darrell made
sure through advance planning and correspondence with us that his selection
of music and his appearance would be most appropriate, and they were. Darrell
was prompt and prepared when he arrived, worked well with our sound people,
presented his music in a professional manner, and blessed us greatly as
he ministered in song. His rapport with the congregation was excellent,
and our people reacted very favorably to him and his music. We would not
hesitate to invite him back to Colonial Baptist Church. It is my pleasure
to recommend him to you and your family of faith. "
- Darlene Jarvis, Music Director Colonial Baptist Church, Trinity,
NC
"Darrell Ritchie connected with our church family in
a way that was genuine and down to earth. We were inspired and uplifted
by his songs of praise and, perhaps more importantly, we were challenged
and encouraged by the testimony of his faith."
- Gary Ward,
Pastor Cooper River Baptist Church, Charleston, SC
"It was good to have you here at Durham with us
last Sunday! What a day of celebration we had! I want to thank you for your
inspiring music that you shared in our services. The Chancel Choir enjoyed
having you help us out on (our musical) “Forever Gloria”….thank you for
singing with us!”
-- Gene Boatwright, , Minister of Music Durham Memorial Baptist Church,
Charlotte, NC
"We had the pleasure of hosting Darrell Ritchie
in concert here at First Baptist, and it was a wonderful night of worship!
Great songs and great testimony made for a great night of praise! If you
are looking for another "cookie cutter" Christian artist to sing for your
church, do not call Darrell Ritchie. I wholeheartedly recommend him, however,
if you are looking for an artist with the heart for God and for the local
church. You will not regret the decision to bring Darrell's ministry to
your church....I guarantee it!"
- Chason Farris,Minister
Of Music, First Baptist Church, Wetumpka, AL
"We truly enjoyed having Darrell sing at our church.
He provided the music for our morning service, and the music he chose fit
perfectly with the sermon topic. He then did a full concert that evening.
He has a powerful testimony, a great sense of humor, and a friendliness
that makes him very approachable. His music is excellent, with wonderful
lyrics that speak to today's Christian, and the struggles that we encounter
in our daily lives. He sings a variety of musical styles, from contemporary
to the great hymns of our faith, so there is something for everyone. It
is evident that Darrell lives what he sings, and his sincerity is real and
refreshing. If you have the opportunity to have Darrell in your church,
you will definitely be blessed."
-Ann Matthews,, Minister Of Music First Baptist Church Graham, NC
"I highly recommend (the ministry of) Darrell Ritchie.
Darrell has a distinct gift of using word and music to reach into the depths
of one's Spiritual need, and allows the Holy Spirit to work through him
without any 'flavor of 'entertainment' for all ages. Darrell shines forth
with the love and excitement of Jesus, the perfect combination to bring
us before His throne."
-Tony Serrao,, Minister Of Music Five Forks Baptist Church Simpsonville,
SC
"It was a privilege to have Darrell come to our "Friend Day" service this past April. He sang for our pre-service music and lead our people into praise and thanksgiving of our Lord Jesus Christ. We truly appreciated his ministry. I know your congregation will be blessed by his music ministry. "
- A.C. Palmer, , Worship Pastor
First Wesleyan Church, Troy, North Carolina
" Darrell has served our church and the Lord well. I recommend him!
-- Neil Cardwell , Pastor, Northminster Baptist Church, Conyers, GA
"We enjoyed getting to know you!....You have a wonderful
ministry. Your gift is not just in your singing or songwriting ability (and
you are definitely gifted there!), but also in your ability to speak about
what God has done in your life. He chose to draw you closer to Him through
trial and He wants you to continue to use your witness of that time to His
glory. You are a gifted communicator in song and in the spoken word, a rare
combination...."
-David & Sandy,, Concert Goers Aldersgate UMC Montgomery, AL
"I appreciate Darrell's genuine love for the Lord
and for the local church. He uses good judgment in selecting music for worship
services. His skill in musical expression communicates the message very
clearly."
- Ron Moore,
Worship Pastor, First Baptist Church, Perry, Georgia
"I really enjoyed your concert last evening at Abbott's
Creek Baptist. I really believe you are doing what you are supposed to do...
you have been given a great gift and I hope you will continue to use it!"
- Marilyn (Concert goer), Abbott's Creek Baptist Church, High Point,
NC
"I want to thank Darrell for his honest, straight-forward
presentation of the Gospel through song. He brought us a program that our
people could connect with using a variety of styles, sung in a warm, rich,
pleasing manner. His testimony is one that touched many of our folks as
they, myself included,
could identify with the struggles he had faced. I heartily recommend Darrell
to your congegation."
- Jim Wrenn, Minister of Music, Glen Hope Baptist Church,
Burlington, NC
"Darrell Ritchie provided our congregation with
an uplifting and worshipful testimony in song. He shared with our congregation
on a Sunday morning worship experience. I was greatful of his willingness
and ability to lead worship, teach our congregation new songs, and share
his testimony, as well as his songwriting abilities with us. Our congregation
has continued to share touching words from his time here with us. They are
enjoying his CD and continuing to hear the Word of God through Darrell's
ministry."
- Heather Pasteur, Minister of Music, Piney Grove Baptist Church,
Fuquay-Varina, NC
"We were blessed to have Darrell Ritchie in a Sunday
evening concert. He sang a variety of songs and was well received by our
people. Darrell is not a showman or performer but is a young man who sings
from his heart for God's glory. I am pleased to recommend his ministry."
- Rev. Jerry L. Price, Pastor, Patterson Baptist Church, Patterson,
GA
"Darrell brings an impressive degree of professionalism
to his ministry that he has developed through his many years as a musician.
He works hard to bring the best possible worship/ concert experience to
every venue. Add to this his pleasant nature, easy-going personality, grace-filled
heart, and inspirational testimony, and it becomes easy to recommend Darrell
as a concert artist and worship leader."
- Mike Moose, Minister of Music, Roxboro Baptist Church, Roxboro,
NC
"It was the wonderful pleasure of our Church to
host Darrell Ritchie in concert recently. Beautiful music done extremely
well and great professionalism housed in a Spirit filled servant was our
experience as Darrell shared songs of the faith. It is refreshing to see
loving servants of God coming to local churches in a faith-based ministry.
Darrell has a sweet spirit as he sings and his relationship to the Lord
is evident in his performance."
- John Hall,
Worship Leader, Lucerne Baptist Church, Lilburn, GA
"Just wanted to express our appreciation for a job
well done. Your music ministry is outstanding and reaches to so many through
such a beautiful voice. Looking forward to having you come back an join
us again in the future. God speed to you and your family. Thanks for sharing
your God-given talents with us."
- Elizabeth
S. Mosher, Minister Of Worship, Covenant UMC, High Point, NC
"Thanks again for the great concert! Our folks were
quick to realize that you sing from the heart and that they have experienced
a worship service and not just a concert."
- Raleigh Todd,
Minister of Worship, First Baptist Church, China Grove, NC
"Darrell really loves our Lord Jesus! There is a
freshness in his spirit that allows one to truly worship when he sings.
He is a faithful father and husband which add to the integrity of his ministry.
People of all ages are touched by his musical gifts, and he has blessed
our congregation with his sweet demeanor and contagious joy. I have had
him come several times for different musical services and he has always
been a blessing."
- Phillip Shepherd, Associate Pastor, Minister of Worship Sunrise
Baptist Church, Lawrenceville, GA
"...It is a great honor to recommend Darrell Ritchie
and his music ministry. When I first spoke with Darrell I was impressed
with his gentle spirit, but when I heard him sing and share his testimony
I understood his passion. His musical talent will transform any service
into a worship experience that you will long remember. Be blessed beyond
measure by allowing Darrell the opportunity to share his musical talent
and story."
- Hazel Pleasants, Music Coordinator, Oaklawn Baptist Church, Winston
Salem, NC
"Darrell Ritchie is a wonderful communicator of
God's saving message through song. I've had the pleasure of knowing Darrell
for the past 12 years and it is always a pleasure to welcome him to our
services. We know that his positive attitude and his humor, as well as his
music will encourage people and draw them closer to the throne of God. Darrell's
primary focus is worshiping God and encouraging others to do the same -
offering themselves to our Creator. If you are looking for someone to lead
people to worship God, then I highly recommend Darrell Ritchie."
- Rev. Mark Wood, Associate Pastor, Cumming Baptist Church, Cumming,
GA
"My name is Dave Williams and I have been a pastor
for 20 plus years. For about 11 of those 20 years it has been my privilege
to have Darrell Ritchie minister in song to the congregations I have served.
When Darrell ministers you can always count on a service where Jesus will
be lifted up and exalted. You can always count on Darrell building up the
body of Christ and exhorting your people through positive, encouraging lyrics
and music. You will also find that Darrell has a love and appreciation for
the local body of Christ. If you are looking for a person who will bring
a positive, Christ- centered message with powerful vocals and an encouraging
heart, I recommend Darrell Ritchie with utmost confidence."
- Pastor Dave Williams, Faith Baptist Church, Statesville, NC
"Darrell has been a regular guest with us over the
past four years. His ministry is always energetic, the quality of his musicianship
is first rate, and most importantly, his spirit accommodating and Christ-like.
We have literally hundreds of musical guests over the years - not all are
invited back! But Darrell Ritchie is always welcome at New Hope. In a day
of "Prima-Donnas" and astronomical financial requests it is a
pleasure to find an artist who still views ministry as his main objective."
- Joe Estes, Minister of Music, New Hope Baptist Church, Fayetteville,
GA
" “It was a pleasure hearing your ministry at Providence Baptist Church. I will long enjoy the (All Good Things…) CD! We will pray God continues to bless you, your voice, and your ministry for His glory….”"
- Amanda, , Concert Goer, Providence Baptist Church, Loganville, GA
"Darrell is a spiritually transformed, one-of-a-kind,
new creature in Christ. As a minister he models a transparency and sincerity
that disarms the reluctant and resistant. He takes the gospel quite seriously
and maintains a lighthearted outlook about himself. It was a joy to work
with a fellow musician who is gifted and humble. His enthusiasm and cooperative
spirit made the preparation for the concert a pleasure.... His spontaneity
and able leadership made the concert both worshipful and spiritually entertaining.
I heartily encourage you to include Darrell in your worship or concert schedule
soon. Based upon my experience, I expect him to be in constant demand!"
- Lonnie E Wymer, Minister of Music, First Baptist Church, Thomasville
N.C.
"It has been a privilege getting to know Darrell
Ritchie. His commitment to the Lord is evident both through his music and
his servant's heart. It is so encouraging to see those God is raising up
through the music industry to make an impact for our Lord. Darrell will
bless your heart, encourage you and focus your attention on Jesus."
- Margaret Morris, Minister of Youth, Westmeade Baptist Church, Decatur,
AL
"Darrell's previous concert here was the best received
music service in the history of Grace Baptist ....we look forward to seeing
him again.
- Dr. Grant Hodges, Pastor, Grace Baptist Church, Indianapolis, IN
"I want to thank you for your excellent concert
this past Sunday night. I have heard nothing but good comments since. The
youth especially enjoyed your time with them and I thank you for giving
them some extra attention. We look forward to your returning."
- Steve Smith, Minister of Music and Youth, Unity Baptist Church,
Newnan, GA
"We were pleased to host Darrell Ritchie for a time
of music and ministry. Our choir enjoyed singing with Darrell in our morning
worship celebration. Darrell is a talented singer/songwriter, following
God's call on his life to lead people to new heights in their worship experience.
We look forward to when Darrell can return.
- Tom Barden, Minister of Music, Monaghan Baptist Church, Greenville,
SC
"The Scripture says, " Behold, my servant whom
I uphold my elect one in whom my soul delights. I have put my spirit upon
him; he will bring forth justice to the gentiles." Darrell's character
is one that fits this description. His music is such an inspiration to all
that hear. The spirit of the Lord has definitely touched this man of God.
He will be a blessing wherever he goes to whomever he shares his gift of
music with."
- Rev. T. Mark Greene, Minister of Education, Westside Baptist Church,
Ft. Pierce, FL